Tory MP Mark Menzies Facing Police Probe Over Alleged Misuse Of Campaign Funds
Tory MP Mark Menzies is set to be contacted by police following allegations that he misused campaign funds last December. Lancashire Police confirmed they are aware of media reports regarding the MP and will speak to those involved. Menzies has been suspended from the Conservative party while they investigate claims he demanded £5,000, later rising to £6,500, from a campaign manager in the middle of the night to pay off “bad people”, reimbursing the aide with donated funds.
The allegations first surfaced in a report by The Times this week. Labour leader Keir Starmer has called for a police investigation, questioning why the Conservatives took so long to act. Menzies, who also lost his role as a government trade envoy, denies wrongdoing and says he has fully complied with declaration rules. However, Grant Shapps admitted the Tories had been aware of issues for months.
What Are The Allegations Against Mark Menzies?
According to reports, Menzies phoned his former campaign manager at 3am last December saying he was locked in a flat by “bad people” and needed money urgently. The amount later rose to £6,500, which was paid from the manager’s personal savings and reimbursed via donations.
A source close to Menzies told The Times he paid due to fears over the consequences of refusing, though he lacked own funds. They claim he offered to repay but local Tories controlling donations said it was unnecessary. The police plan to contact those involved to establish if a formal complaint will be made.
